Senior Operations Analyst - Master Production Scheduler

Job Summary

The Senior Operations Analyst with a focus on Master Production Scheduling (MPS) will have a deep understanding of production planning, forecasting, and scheduling in a complex manufacturing environment. This individual will be responsible for ensuring that production schedules align with demand forecasts, inventory levels, and overall business goals while optimizing resource utilization and minimizing costs. This role involves collaborating with cross-functional teams such as production, procurement, and logistics to ensure that production plans are aligned with customer demand, capacity constraints, and inventory levels. The Senior Operations Analyst will drive efficiency, optimize production timelines, and manage resources to meet on-time delivery targets while maintaining cost-effectiveness.

Duties and Responsibilities/Essential Functions

• Master Production Scheduling (MPS):
  • Develop, maintain, and execute the Master Production Schedule (MPS) to ensure the efficient and timely production of goods in alignment with demand forecasts and customer orders.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams (sales, supply chain, procurement, and manufacturing) to adjust production plans based on changing business priorities, demand fluctuations, and supply constraints.
  • Maintain and optimize the production planning system to ensure accurate, real-time scheduling information.
• Demand and Supply Alignment:
  • Analyze and forecast demand for finished goods and work closely with supply chain management to balance production capacities with demand requirements.
  • Monitor and adjust production plans based on material availability, labor, and equipment capacities.
  • Track and report key performance indicators (KPIs) related to production, on-time delivery, and inventory management.
• Continuous Improvement:
  • Identify and implement process improvements within the production scheduling process, aiming to reduce lead times, improve schedule adherence, and optimize resource utilization.
  • Work with the operations team to resolve production bottlenecks and improve overall efficiency.
• Inventory Management:
  • Partner with inventory and supply chain teams to ensure finished goods and work-in-progress (WIP) inventory levels are aligned with production schedules and business needs.
  • Ensure that excess inventory is minimized while maintaining the ability to meet customer demands.
• Reporting & Analytics:
  • Provide regular updates and reporting to senior leadership on production schedules, capacity utilization, and any potential disruptions.
  • Analyze production trends and recommend strategies to improve scheduling efficiency and production output.
• Collaboration & Communication:
  • Foster strong working relationships with internal stakeholders, including manufacturing, procurement, engineering, and logistics teams, to ensure alignment on production goals.
  • Lead or participate in meetings with cross-functional teams to review production schedules, forecast updates, and resolve any issues impacting operations.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Supply Chain Management, Industrial Engineering, Operations Management, or related field; equivalent work experience may be considered in lieu of degree.
  • A Master’s degree or relevant certifications (e.g., APICS CPIM, Six Sigma) is a plus.
• 10+ years of experience in operations analysis, production scheduling, or supply chain management, with a focus on Master Production Scheduling (MPS).
• Proven experience working in a manufacturing or operations environment, preferably in a complex production setting.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to manage complex scheduling and planning processes.
• Proficient in ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle) and advanced Excel for data analysis and reporting.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to collaborate with cross-functional teams.
• Knowledge of inventory management, production scheduling methodologies, and lean manufacturing principles.
• Strong attention to detail and the ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines.
• A proactive and results-oriented approach to problem-solving.
• Ability to work under pressure and adapt to changing business needs.
• Collaborative team player with a positive attitude and a solutions-driven mindset.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with demand forecasting, capacity planning, and supply